Situated in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, Mission San Fernando Rey de España comes to life in this vibrant piece by artist Howard, highlighting its role as a living classroom, historical archives center, and sacred community hub.
"Several years before I began the mission painting project, I was introduced to Msgr. Francis Weber by a mutual friend, never imagining how important he would become to this effort," Howard recalls.
Key Details & Hidden Touches:
A Special Tribute: Msgr. Francis Weber, the renowned archivist who granted Howard access to centuries of historic mission records, is painted on the left walkway alongside his faithful Sheltie dog, watching over visiting schoolchildren.
Vibrant Mission Grounds: Capturing a unique period in the mission's history, the painting features peacocks and other animals, including a hen strolling in the foreground, roaming freely across the grounds.
Youth & Discovery: School buses and energetic fourth-graders fill the scene, honoring the classic California history field trip where young students explore the roots of their state's heritage.
Sacred Legacy: Beyond its educational charm, the piece honors the site's ongoing importance as a resting place, historical treasure trove, and sanctuary for prayer and community life.
Situated in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, Mission San Fernando Rey de España comes to life in this vibrant piece by artist Howard, highlighting its role as a living classroom, historical archives center, and sacred community hub.
"Several years before I began the mission painting project, I was introduced to Msgr. Francis Weber by a mutual friend, never imagining how important he would become to this effort," Howard recalls.
Key Details & Hidden Touches:
A Special Tribute: Msgr. Francis Weber, the renowned archivist who granted Howard access to centuries of historic mission records, is painted on the left walkway alongside his faithful Sheltie dog, watching over visiting schoolchildren.
Vibrant Mission Grounds: Capturing a unique period in the mission's history, the painting features peacocks and other animals, including a hen strolling in the foreground, roaming freely across the grounds.
Youth & Discovery: School buses and energetic fourth-graders fill the scene, honoring the classic California history field trip where young students explore the roots of their state's heritage.
Sacred Legacy: Beyond its educational charm, the piece honors the site's ongoing importance as a resting place, historical treasure trove, and sanctuary for prayer and community life.
